Ryan, who is rehabbing at class-A Dunedin after being placed on the disabled list April 23 with a strained trapezius, has been replaced by left-hander Scott Downs as the Jays closer. Downs will remain in the closer's role when Ryan returns, general manager J.P. Ricciardi said prior to last night's game. Ricciardi added that Ryan is expected to return by the end of the homestandon Monday.

"No, I don't think so," Ricciardi said when asked if Ryan will return as the closer. "I think B.J. understands that at this point. One thing about B.J. is that he wants to win and I think right now with Downs doing such a good job (3-for-3 in save situations) and the club being comfortable in that role, I don't think it's a role right now that's open. Ultimately I think B.J. will get back to being a closer at some point but I think right now Downs has the role and it's tough to argue with the club playing so well. B.J.'s a team guy and he understands that."

What role Ryan inherits is up in the air.

"I don't know," Ricciardi said. "We'll have to see how it plays out."

Ryan, who threw a 1-2-3 inning Monday with Dunedin, will make another appearance tonight and at that time be re-evaluated, Ricciardi said. Ryan, who has struggled with his velocity and his command this year, is 1-0 with an 11.12 ERA in six appearances. He was 2-for-4 in save situations.

In Dunedin, the Jays are working on slowing down his delivery. "He's getting a little bit ahead of himself, we're trying to re-work his delivery a little bit," Ricciardi added.

Ryan, 33, was signed to a five-year, $47-million US contract in November of 2005. In 2006 he had 38 saves but the following season he injured his elbow in April, required Tommy John surgery and was gone for the remainder of the season.